OPEN ARMS: (Opposite page) Dr. Morrison's children share a moment together; "As my child on the spectrum has grown, I have seen the positive impact that acceptance can have. By creating spaces where his unique perspective is valued and heard, and where his particular needs are met, he has been able to thrive and grow. He has found a supportive community of peers, teachers and providers who accept him for who he is and celebrate his strengths."

April is Autism Awareness Month, a time when we come together as a community to raise awareness about autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Activities like community walks, 5k runs, bake sales and workshops are numerous and filled with many blue-shirt wearing attendees.

These activities provide important education and can help dispel myths and preconceptions about the disorder. Often, they also help raise funds for research and services that improve the lives of those on the spectrum.

While awareness is an important part of improving the lives of those with autism, it is not enough. That's why many groups, such as the Autistic Self-Advocacy Network (ASAN), have advocated for changing the focus from awareness to acceptance. ASAN has referred to April as Autism Acceptance Month since 2011, and many other groups have picked up on this change in recent years.

Autism acceptance involves recognizing and embracing the differences that make

each individual unique, regardless of their neurodiversity. It means going beyond mere awareness and actively working to create a more inclusive and accepting world for those on the spectrum. Acceptance also means recognizing that autism is just one aspect of a person's identity. Everyone has value and deserves the opportunity to live a fulfilling and meaningful life, regardless of their neurodiversity. It involves seeking to understand someone deeper than their labels, and building an inclusive community for diverse neurotypes. Acceptance requires year-round commitment and is important so that we can break down stigmas about people on the autism spectrum and recognize their unique contributions to our lives.

A MORE INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY : 3 WAYS TO DEMONSTRATE ACCEPTANCE

We can demonstrate acceptance by creating and maintaining spaces in the classroom, home and workplace, where those with autism can be heard, feel more comfortable and accepted, and where they can flourish. Here are three specific ways:

1. STRENGTHS

As educators, parents and coworkers, we can work with autistic individuals to identify and highlight their strengths. By understanding those strengths, we can find opportunities to leverage them in classroom or work assignments. My son does not like writing, but he has amazing reading comprehension and analysis skills. Instead of writing a lengthy essay, his teacher suggested that he have me interview him about the book and record the interview. He could convey all his ideas and observations without staring at a computer screen and getting frustrated.

2. PERSPECTIVE

We can also be more thoughtful in engaging autistic individuals, and ask for their perspective on a discussion and involve them in decisionmaking. My son often has a completely different perspective on a situation that really makes me stop and think. When he was small, I would give him 2-3 choices to empower him (and avoid meltdowns). As an adult, we help each other analyze situations, distill down options, and come to decisions. It's such a gift to have his input.

3. SENSORY

In classrooms, homes and workspaces, we can incorporate sensory-friendly spaces to make learning and working easier and more accessible for those on the spectrum. We can adjust lighting, eliminate strong odors like perfume or air freshener, provide noise canceling headphones and quiet hand fidget devices.